Floyd County citizens turned out Tuesday night to the County Administration Building for the first of three public hearings on the proposed 2025 property tax rates. The county is looking to set a millage rate of up to 9.5 mills, which would mean a 6.1% increase over the rollback rate—the amount needed to keep taxes level with last year.
Many residents voiced opposition, urging county leaders to avoid raising property taxes. To watch meeting, click here https://floydcountyga.granicus.com/player/clip/115?view_id=1&redirect=true
County officials say rising costs are driving the proposal. Increases in employee pay, especially for public safety, along with higher healthcare costs and expenses for jail operations and other county services, have pushed the budget higher. Although the millage rate was lowered in 2022 and 2023, inflation and service demands are making it difficult to maintain services without new revenue.
County Manager Jamie McCord said a long-term solution could come in the form of House Bill 581. If approved by voters in November, it would implement a one-cent sales tax that could significantly lower property tax rates—potentially cutting them by about 40% for both the county and the city.
Property tax bills are based on 40% of a home’s assessed value, multiplied by the total millage rate, which includes both county and school rates. The Floyd County Board of Education plans to keep its rate steady at 16.831 mills.
Because the proposed rate exceeds the rollback rate, state law requires three public hearings before any final decision can be made.
